Mount Cameroon Research Articles

PERFORMANCE OF FARM RESIDUES MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES ON SELECTED SOIL PROPERTIES AND MAIZE (ZEA MAYS) YIELD ON THE EASTERN FLANKS OF MOUNT CAMEROON

Huge quantities of crop residues are generated annually in agricultural farms and are variedly handled by farmers. These residues are important nutrients for crops and also play a primordial role in soil physical, chemical and biological properties. Their retention/recycling is thought to naturally improve soil nutrient content, maintain soil productivity, reduces dependence on artificial fertilizers and also mitigating greenhouse gases emissions. However, such residues are bulky and farmers are in dire need of convincing knowledge on their sustainable management. The present study evaluated the effects of four crop residue management techniques (removal, burning, mulching and incorporation) on selected soil physicochemical properties and maize yield in the vulnerable hilly topography of the eastern flanks of Mount Cameroon. A 4×4 complete randomized block design (RCBD) experiment was laid down and maize (CMS 8704 variety) was planted. Surface soil samples were equally collected from the plots before treatment application and at harvest. They were analysed for their physicochemical properties using standard methods. Maize growth and yield parameters were measured at harvest. The data collected were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics. The results indicated that soil bulk density, moisture content, organic matter contents, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium levels increased with mulching and incorporation but decreased with total removal of residues. Plant heights were 10%, 6.1% and 2.3% higher for mulching, incorporation and burning relative to total removal, respectively. Grain yield were similarly 10%, 6.1% and 5.1% higher for mulching, incorporation and burning relative to total removal, respectively. A highly significant positive relationship (R2 = 0.9976) was obtained between grain yield and soil organic matter. The study concluded that, the retention of residues through the methods of mulching and incorporation were the best approaches to improve soil quality and crop yield. By recycling crop residues back into the soil, farmers can enhance soil fertility and structure, herby reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. There is therefore the need to educate farmers on the essentiality of residues incorporation and mulching within the farm and their long-term impacts. This is indispensable for promoting soil sustainability and safeguarding food security.

Plume moths (Lepidoptera, Pterophoridae) of a recently discovered lepidopteran diversity hotspot in the Mount Cameroon area, with descriptions of four new species.

Moth diversity on Mount Cameroon, a critical biodiversity hotspot in the Afrotropics, remains understudied despite the region's rich and unique ecosystems. In this study, 34 species of plume moths (Pterophoridae) were recorded from the Mount Cameroon region, including four species new to science: Titanoptilusbigoti Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Titanoptilusmurkwe Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Hellinsiaekonjo Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., and Hellinsiamapanja Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov. Images of the adult type specimen and male genitalia for Titanoptilusmelanodonta Hampson, 1905 are published for the first time. In addition, 25 species are reported as new records for the Cameroonian fauna, raising the number of known Pterophoridae species in the country from 19 to 48. The results significantly expand our understanding of plume moth diversity in the region and extend the known distribution range of several species. These findings emphasise the importance of Mount Cameroon as a biodiversity hotspot within the Afrotropics. Enhanced conservation efforts are essential to preserve the unique biodiversity of Mount Cameroon, especially considering threats such as ongoing habitat degradation in some parts of the region and climate change.

Heavy metal and bacteria contamination of selected wetland ecosystems on the eastern slope of Mount Cameroon: implications for human and ecosystem health.

The wetland ecosystems on Mount Cameroon's eastern slope, known for their agroecological significance and biodiversity, are facing potential threats such as heavy metal and bacterial contamination due to poor waste management systems and anthropogenic activities. A study was conducted to quantify the heavy metals and bacterial loads in Solanum scabrum Mill., Amaranthus cruentus L., and Talinum fruticosum (L.) Juss., three major vegetables grown in the area. Soil and water samples were collected and analysed for the concentrations of 24 elements, including heavy metals, using the inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) approach. The bacteria in the samples were isolated and cultured in lactose broth, and the total coliform count was estimated using the maximum probable number (MPN) technique. The heavy metals in both soil and plant samples occurred in the order Mn > Zn > Cr > Ni > Cu > Co > Pb > Fe > Al. The contamination indices of Mn > 5807.3 and Cr > 4698.3 indicated varied sources of these metal contaminants. The bioaccumulation coefficient (BAC) was > 1 for most of the metals, with T. fruticosum having the highest BAC value (3.60) for the leaves. The mean bacteria count indicated high contamination with Enterobacteria (600 coliform forming units (CFU)) and E. coli (500 CFU) in vegetables across all sampling sites. The high concentration of bacterial contaminants in the soil, water, and plants across the study sites indicates a high health risk, making the ecosystem not pristine and thus impossible for these wetlands to improve food security. Consequently, this study provides crucial information for policymakers and stakeholders to develop effective strategies for the conservation and sustainable management of these wetlands.

Indigenous Knowledge on Edible Wild Yams (Kumbu) in the Mount Cameroon Region: Towards Domestication for Enhanced Food Security

Indigenous Knowledge on Edible Wild Yams (Kumbu) in the Mount Cameroon Region: Towards Domestication for Enhanced Food Security

Human Encroachment and Urban Water Supply Sustainability in the Eastern Flank of Mount Cameroon

The present study assessed the impact of human invasion of water catchments and the sustainability of water supply in the Eastern Flank of Mount Cameroon. There is growing concern over the future of the world’s water resources due to the astronomical population growth and human invasion of water catchment areas. It considered factors such as housing development, agricultural expansion; infrastructural development compounded by climate variability and relief factors. This study adopted the mixed research design as it combined both qualitative and qualitative research approaches. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were used. Three satellite images of 1993, 2010 and 2023 were downloaded from the United State Geologic Survey (USGS) Earth Explorer and processed of portraying dynamics of human invasion (built-up expansion and agriculture) and implications on water catchments in the study. A total of 185 questionnaires were randomly administered to households living around catchments and 5 key informants were also interviewed. Questionnaire data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science Standard (SPSS version 23.0). Findings revealed that land cover around the catchments is increasingly dominated by agriculture (farmlands, palm plantations, tea estates and market gardening) which increased from 2872.71km in 1990 to 4406.16km in 2023. Also, settlement land increased from 596.95km in 1990 to 4029.70km in 2023 by use to meet the burgeon population. Water catchment yields over the years have increased from 1659840m3 in 2005 to 4643981.03m3 in the year 2023 but with increasing urbanization and variability of temperature and rainfall elements, the catchment areas are rapidly changing with severe human and environmental consequences. Crucially, the study found that continuous human encroachment has drastically reduced natural catchment areas, directly impacting potable water availability, with a significant correlation between land use changes and water yields. This unsustainable trajectory necessitates immediate policy interventions. Despite intervention efforts by communities, government agencies, NGOs, and international agencies—including reforestation, regulation enforcement, and infrastructure repairs to ensure the sustainability of water supply and management—challenges like rapid urbanization, climate change, and inadequate enforcement persist. Therefore, to ensure water sustainability, this study recommends establishing catchment buffer zones, enforcing land use regulations, optimizing water infrastructure, promoting sustainable agriculture and climate resilience, enhancing community engagement, and fostering collaborative resource management. A strategic land use planning policy is essential to reduce the harmful effects of anthropogenic activities around water catchments and ensure efficient water supply.

Coping with altitude: Altitude-driven floral visitor shifts on Hypericum revolutum (Hypericaceae) on Mount Cameroon grasslands

Abstract Elevational gradients provide a unique opportunity to study the plasticity of plant-pollinator interactions, which is crucial for understanding ecological and evolutionary processes in plant pollination systems. Species-specific dispersal across elevation gradients of tropical mountains is constrained by the different tolerance of individual species to abiotic factors. Consequently, the composition of plant and pollinator communities, such as their interactions, changes continuously. For example, previous studies have shown a bee-to-fly transition as elevation increases, or that at high elevations, bird-pollinated plants may be more effectively pollinated than closely related bee-pollinated species, highlighting an altitude-driven bee-to-bird transition. We used Hypericum revolutum (Hypericaceae) as model plant, to explore how the identity and activity of floral visitors change along an elevational gradient in the montane grasslands of Mount Cameroon. We observed flower visitors across four elevations during two seasons. Our study confirmed the predicted bee-to-fly transition with increasing elevation. Bird activity followed a hump-shaped pattern, peaking around 2,800 meters above sea level. Male Cinnyris reichenowi individuals, the main bird floral visitor, exhibited higher activity than females throughout the entire elevational gradient and across both study periods. The observed patterns suggest that plants may face evolutionary pressures to adapt to these shifting pollinator communities, potentially driving local adaptations and diversification within populations.

Gender Dimensions of Roles and Implications of Plantation Agriculture: A Critical Look at Cameroon Development Cooperation (CDC) Debundscha Palm Estate Pre and Post-Anglophone Crisis

Background: Gender analysis of plantation agriculture is at an important point in history as more and more women continue to gain entry into plantation work. While governments view it as gender balanced and as an issue of equality in terms of employments, feminists are more concerned with the labour realities and job segregation that affects the status of workers especially female workers. Aims: To examine the well-being and gender dynamics of workers at the Debundscha Palm plantation in Cameroon, focusing on changes before and after the Anglophone crisis Study Design: This study used two Research Designs, Descriptive and investigative, because it is a mixed study. Place: Situated at the foot of Mount Cameroon and facing the South Atlantic Ocean. The research focused in Njonge 2, Isongo, and Debundscha camps. Methodology: Using questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions, the study analyzes data quantitatively with SPSS and qualitatively. It employs frameworks such as the Harvard Analytical Framework, sex role socialization, and Human Capital Theory to explore the low-paid positions predominantly held by women and how the Cameroon Development Corporation (CDC) values workers' skills for sustainable development. Results: The findings indicate a pronounced gender-based division of labor, with men in higher-paying positions and women in lower-paid roles. The Anglophone crisis affected all workers, resulting in irregular pay, health issues, and heightened risks of crime and prostitution. Social challenges included inadequate healthcare. Women faced additional discrimination in education and training compared to men. Conclusion: Overall, the study underscores the complex interplay of gender and well-being in a labor context marked by crisis, revealing persistent inequalities between gender and labor conditions. The findings emphasize the need for greater attention to gender equity and resource allocation to enhance living and working conditions for all plantation workers.

Beneficial arthropods threatened by synthetic agricultural pesticides around the southeast slopes of Mount Cameroon.

Agriculture is among the main drivers of global biodiversity decline. This research assessed the ecological risk of synthetic pesticides at the southeast slopes of Mount Cameroon on bees and other non-target arthropods (NTAs) using the PRIMET (Pesticide RIsk in the tropics to Man, Environment and Trade) model. Data on pesticide usage (active ingredients, interval, dosage, number of applications), and ecotoxicology (LD50 and environmental behaviour) were collected from field surveys and the IUPAC databases, respectively, then imported into PRIMET to assess the level of risk expressed in Exposure Toxicity Ratio (ETR). Tomato was the main crop of the area while insecticides were the main pesticide category utilised in the study area. Nine (09) compounds were predicted to pose a "risk" to bees namely abamectin, fipronil, imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, emamectin-benzoate, cypermethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, indoxacarb and ethoprophos. Abamectin had the highest ETR in the group (NECbee=0.05g a.i./ha; ETRbee=20000). Fifteen (15) active ingredients were predicted by the model to pose a certain in-field risk to NTAs with lambda-cyhalothrin at the top position (AECNTA=0.0034g a.i./ha; ETRIF=1147000). There was evidence that insecticides were of more risk to beneficial arthropods, as compared to other types of pesticides. Pesticides active ingredients such as abamectin, fipronil, imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, emamectin-benzoate, cypermethrin and lambda-cyhalothrin that were predicted to pose "Risk" both to bees and others NTAs require serious mitigation strategies (biological control, improve cultural practices, target application, farmer's education).

Cophylogeny, narrow host breadth and local conditions drive highly specialized bird-haemosporidian associations in West-Central African sky islands.

The parasite island syndrome denotes shifts in parasite life histories on islands, which affect parasite diversity, prevalence and specificity. However, current evidence of parasite island syndromes mainly stems from oceanic islands, while sky islands (i.e. mountains isolated by surrounding low-elevation habitats) have received limited attention. To explore the parasite syndrome in Afrotropical sky islands, we examined haemosporidian blood parasites and their bird hosts in two Afromontane regions in Cameroon. Analysing more than 1300 bird blood samples from the Bamenda Highlands and Mount Cameroon, we found considerably reduced parasite lineage diversity and total prevalence in Mt Cameroon, but not in the Bamenda Highlands. We found highly specific parasite-host interactions at both sites and these associations showed significant phylogenetic congruence, suggesting that closely related parasites infect phylogenetically related hosts. These parasite-host associations tend to be shaped mainly by duplications, switches, losses and failures to diverge rather than through co-speciation events. Overall, the high specificity and parasite-host association differences at local scales largely agree with the limited insights from other sky islands. Yet the drivers of these interactions differ geographically, suggesting that unique dynamics of fragmentation and isolation of montane habitats can lead to similar patterns of host-parasite interactions that are shaped by different underlying drivers.

Revisiting water resources management in the Mandara Mountains.

Revisiting water resources management in the Mandara Mountains.

The Effect of Pseudo‐Global Warming on the Weather‐Climate System of Africa in a Convection‐Permitting Model

AbstractThe African easterly jet (AEJ) and the West African Monsoon (WAM) can largely modulate high‐impact weather over Africa and the tropical Atlantic. How these features will change with a warming climate is just starting to be addressed due to global climate model limitations in resolving convection. We employ a novel regional setup for an atmospheric convection‐permitting model alongside the pseudo‐global warming (PGW) approach to address climate change impacts on the weather‐climate system of Africa during a short period of high‐impact weather. Our findings indicate that the AEJ and WAM may intensify in a future warming climate scenario. Precipitation is shown to increase over Guinea Highlands and Cameroon Mountains and shift southward due to a latitudinal expansion and increase of deep convection closer to the equator. This has relevant ramifications for the livelihood of communities that depend on water‐fed crops in tropical Africa.

The Herbicidal Potential of Euphorbia Species for Managing Common Weeds in the Mount Cameroon Region

The utilization of botanicals in weed management is of great significance due to their biodegradability and eco-friendly nature. This research evaluates the herbicidal potentials of seven Euphorbia species (Euphorbia hirta, Euphorbia maculata, Euphorbia heterophylla, Euphorbia prostrata, Euphorbia pulcherrima, Euphorbia trigona, and Euphorbia milii) in the Mount Cameroon Region.The assessment of the herbicidal potential of the most promising Euphorbia species was conducted using the Sandwich method along with germination bioassay techniques. Qualitative phytochemical screening techniques were employed to investigate the herbicidal properties of E. heterophylla through the identification of classes of secondary metabolites. Additional analysis of Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, University of Buea, Cameroon, P.O Box 63, Cameroon. The crude extracts from Euphorbia heterophylla regarding the germination and development of five weed species revealed inhibiting effects on all the weeds examined. The results showed that Euphorbia heterophylla exhibited inhibitory effects on Lactuca sativa seeds, with a maximum inhibition of 85.75% at higher concentrations, indicating dose-dependent trends. Bidens pilosa had the highest herbicidal suppression rate of 83.91%, while Mimosa invisa exhibited the least suppression at 61.10%. Thirteen (13) chromatographic fractions of Euphorbia heterophylla were tested for their influence on the germination and growth of Bidens pilosa seeds. The findings showed that fractions F4, F6, F7, and F13 demonstrated total inhibition of the weed (100% suppression). Phytochemical analysis of E. heterophylla identified the presence of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, tannins, steroids, saponins, and cardiac glycosides. Euphorbia heterophylla, had a strong allelopathic potential, making it viable candidate for the isolation and development of bioactive compounds. These compounds could be utilized as bioherbicides and thereby contributing to sustainable weed management in crop production.

Potential engineering applications of volcanic scoria from Mount Cameroon area, Central Africa: evidence from petrography and geochemistry

This study was initiated to explore the suitability of volcanic scoria from Mount Cameroon along the Cameroon Volcanic Line (CVL) in engineering applications. The mineral composition has been obtained through thin sections observation and XRD method. The XRF analytical methods have been used to determine major element composition. The studied rocks are dark gray to reddish in color with a vacuolar structure and porphyritic microlithic texture recalling the Strombolian dynamism. They are mainly made up of pyroxene, olivine, plagioclase, opaque minerals, quartz, magnetite and iddingsite. The presence of phenocrysts of olivine and clinopyroxene is due to mantle contamination. The main chemical components of scoria of Mount Cameroon are silica, alumina, iron and calcium oxides. The abundant vitreous phases are responsible for the acidic character revealed by high SiO2 + Al2O3 contents. Fe2O3, MnO and MgO are hosted by ferromagnesian minerals while SiO2, Al2O3, K2O, NaO and P2O5 are found in acidic vitreous phases. The mineral and chemical composition of the scoria of Mount Cameroun is similar to those of scoria previously studied around the world. They can be used as absorbents for metals because of their high adsorption capacity and affinity for metals. The high SiO2 + Al2O3 + Fe2O3 contents and low LOI values show that the scoria from Mount Cameroon are suitable to the use in cement and concretes. They can improve the resistance to sulfate, and chlorite and alkali silica reaction. According to the chemical composition, the rocks are conforming to French standard NFP18310. Their high CaO contents are favorable to improve the quality of scoria blended cements.

Rhizospheric soil chemical properties and microbial response to a gradient of Chromolaena odorata(L) invasion in the Mount Cameroon Region.

Chromolaena odorata is a noxious alien invasive weed species with an enormous impact on the terrestrial ecosystem. The allelopathic potentials of this weed have had little attention, leading to changes in soil properties and microbial communities. This study investigates the impacts of Chromolaena odorata invasion gradients on rhizospheric soil chemical properties and microbial response in the Mount Cameroon Region. Forty-eight soil samples at four different degrees of invasion (uninvaded, low degree invasion, moderate degree invasion and high degree invasion) based on species coverage within subplots in four study areas were collected and rhizospheric soil chemical properties, microbial load, phosphatases activities and secondary metabolites were evaluated. At medium-degree invasion, rhizospheric soil concentrations of P, K and Fe increased with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonization and phosphatases enzyme activities. Soil C, N and organic matter were significantly increased at high-degree invasion, supporting the use of the plant as a fallow crop. Acid phosphatase activity ranged from 0.69 to 0.90 mmol h-1 kg-1 and was significantly different at different degrees of invasion. AMF colonization ranged from 23.33 to 50.00%, with a strong positive correlation between AMF colonization and phosphatase activity. Soil bacterial load was high (46 × 105 CFU/g- 67 × 105 CFU/g), with mostly Staphylococcus having health concerns about its spread. The invasion situation had no significant effect on soil bacterial load, but high-degree invasion significantly increased fungal load. Low-degree invaded soils had high saponin (24.55±0.00 mg/g), flavonoid (47.7 mg/g) and tannin (28.68 mg/g) concentrations. The investigation reveals that Chromolaena odorata invasion altered rhizospheric soil properties and microbial communities significantly, thereby influencing ecosystem dynamics and soil nutrient availability. However, further studies elucidating kinds of secondary metabolites, identifying microbial communities, and monitoring soil changes influenced by C. odorata are essential for effective ecosystem management.

Application of the pair-input deep learning model for seismicity reassessment in Cameroon

Applying advanced signal analysis and feature extraction methods to seismic datasets facilitates the extraction of key information from these valuable resources. In particular, advanced deep learning models can play a crucial role in this extraction process from seismic waveforms. This study aims to analyze the seismicity of the Cameroon area by deeply scanning an archived dataset from a temporary seismic network composed of 32 broadband sensors that operated in Cameroon from March 2005 to February 2007. We thoroughly scan the dataset to detect local earthquakes, calculate an updated crustal velocity model for the region by incorporating the acquired earthquake bulletin, and perform a joint inversion scheme. The DL-based workflow implemented in this study utilizes a pair-input deep learning model for scanning the seismic phases in the dataset, followed by a seismic phase picking process. Applying the Rapid Earthquake Association and Location method allows for the association of detected phases with local seismic events. By combining a set of 17,261 P-picked and 14,239 S-picked phases associated with 473 well-located earthquakes with magnitudes ranging from 1.3≤ML≤4.6, we implement a joint inversion to estimate an updated 1D crustal velocity model and hypocentral parameters. The obtained model reveals layers with thicknesses of 82,034, and 54 km, extending to a depth of 80 km, with P-wave velocities (Vp) of 6.1, 6.4, 6.6, 7.6, 8.25, and 8.5 km/s, and S-wave velocities (Vs) of 3.57, 3.74, 3.86, 4.44, 4.82, and 5.0 km/s, respectively. The newly detected seismic events predominantly cluster in the Central Cameroon Shear Zone (CCSZ), the east flank of Mount Cameroon, the region between Mount Cameroon and Bioko Island, and the southern part of Bioko Island. The validity of this approach is further supported by a newly compiled catalog for this period, which is 1.35 times more extensive than the previously reported catalog for this dataset. Finally, the study presents a 3D time-lapse animation illustrating the sequence of detected earthquakes.

High Inter-Specific Diversity and Seasonality of Trunk Radial Growth in Trees Along an Afrotropical Elevational Gradient.

Understanding mechanisms driving tropical tree growth is essential for comprehending carbon sequestration and predicting the future of tropical forests amid rapid deforestation. We conducted a natural experiment in Mount Cameroon to identify climatic factors limiting diurnal and seasonal growth in dominant tree species across a 2200-m elevation gradient, from lowland rainforests to montane mist forests with distinct wet and dry seasons. Using high-precision automatic dendrometers, we recorded radial growth rates of 28 tropical tree species from 2015 to 2018, correlating them with rainfall (11 100-2500 mm) and temperatures (23-14°C) across elevations. Significant growth limitations were suggested at both extremes of water availability. Tree growth peaked during the dry and prewet seasons at humid lower elevations and during wet seasons at drier higher elevations. Growth rates increased with soil moisture at higher elevations and peaked at medium soil moisture at lower elevations. Trees grew fastest at lower temperatures relative to their elevation-specific means, with growth limited by high daytime temperatures and promoted by nighttime temperatures. Our results revealed significant interspecific diurnal and seasonal growth variations hindered by both water scarcity and excess in West African rainforests, essential for forecasting and modelling carbon sinks.

"An Assessment of the Environmental Impacts of Quarrying Activities in the Mount Cameroon Area"

"An Assessment of the Environmental Impacts of Quarrying Activities in the Mount Cameroon Area"

Investigation of landslide triggers on Mount Oku, Cameroon, using Newmark displacement and cluster analysis

BackgroundThe landslide inventory of the western flank of Mount Oku, Cameroon, includes spreads or complex landslides, indicating sudden soil weakening, possibly due to seismic activity or heavy rainfall causing groundwater rise. These landslides were likely triggered between 2009 and 2018 based on the dates of the aerial imagery. Identifying triggers for past landslides remains a major unresolved issue in landslide science. However, understanding these triggers is crucial for accurately assessing future landslide hazards.MethodologyIn this paper, we investigate the possibility of earthquakes to precondition landslide development or reactivation during climatic events. By assuming a magnitude 5.2 earthquake, an epicenter of 10 km from this area, and different wetness conditions, the factor of safety (FS) and Newmark displacement (ND) models were calculated for shallow and deep-seated landslides with sliding depths of 3 and 7.5 m. Afterward, the relationship between FS, assumed ND, and observed landslides was analyzed in a cluster analysis, to derive patterns of climatically and seismically triggered landslides.ResultsThe comparison of FS maps and FS values of the observed landslides revealed that especially for landslides at 7.5 m depth, most sites that are stable during dry conditions become instable under saturated conditions, indicating a climatic trigger. At 3 m depth, however, some landslide sites that are still marginally stable under saturated conditions, display relatively high ND values for the investigated hypothetical earthquake, indicating a possible seismic influence. In the cluster analysis, we clustered the observed landslides according to their distances to rivers and topographic ridges and obtained three clusters. Landslides from cluster 3 with 31% of the landslides display medium to high ND for the assumed earthquake, and were found near ridges and farther away from rivers, suggesting seismic triggering. Cluster 2, with 12% of landslides closer to rivers, suggested climatic origins. Thus, while climate is a critical landslide contributing factor, seismic events may also contribute, either by predisposing to landslides or by reactivating them alongside climatic factors. These results enable the establishment of more precise and effective landslide mitigating measures considering mostly rainfall but also earthquakes as possible triggers.

Geological influence on groundwater quality in volcanic aquifers of Eastern Mount Cameroon, West of the Penda Mboko River

This study explores the utility of silica concentration in deciphering geological controls and hydrogeochemical processes affecting groundwater quality in Mount Cameroon’s volcanic terrain. Fifty water samples from wells, boreholes, springs, and rivers were analysed for hydrochemical properties (EC, pH, temperature, TDS) and major ion concentrations (Ca2+ > Mg2+ > K +> Na+ and HCO3− > Cl −> NO3− > SO42−). The groundwater exhibits low mineralization, with a dominance of Ca2+, Mg2+, HCO3−, and SiO2, reflecting minimal water–rock interaction and short residence times. Spatial variations in hydrochemistry suggest diverse water–rock interactions and potential mixing processes (76% of samples in rock dominance zone). Silica concentrations (5.8–58.7 mg/L) and estimated chalcedony temperatures (> 60 ℃ at five sites) indicated depths exceeding 1000 m. This research highlights silica’s effectiveness in tracking water–rock interactions across diverse geological settings, regardless of flow depth or interaction time variations. Mineral saturation indices pointed towards supersaturation with silicate minerals (quartz) but undersaturation with carbonates, sulphates, and halides. These findings contribute to a better understanding of groundwater evolution in Mount Cameroon, valuable insights into the hydrogeochemical processes shaping groundwater quality, aiding sustainable water resource management practices that can benefit local communities by ensuring a reliable source of freshwater. However, opportunities exist to improve future studies and water resource management. For a more comprehensive understanding, future analyses should include a broader range of geochemical tracers, such as nitrate (NO3−) and phosphate (PO43−), to assess potential agricultural or anthropogenic contamination. The study also found elevated levels of chloride and sodium, suggesting potential anthropogenic influences on groundwater quality, such as agricultural practices and waste disposal.

Physical vulnerability assessment and household preparedness of Buea Municipality to seismic hazards from Mount Cameroon Eruptions: A cause for concern

Earthquakes associated with volcanic eruptions from Mount Cameroon can impact society and building infrastructures. This study therefore aimed to assess the following: i) the geological features (rock/soil types) and its characteristics in selected localities within Buea municipality; ii) past-eruption/earthquake impact assessment on buildings; iii) physical vulnerability of buildings infrastructure and iv) household preparedness to earthquake hazards. The study utilized a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques. Geological characteristics was assessed through site visits across the selected ten localities by physical observation and rock sample collection. Past-eruptions (1959Past-eruptions ( , 1982Past-eruptions ( , 1999Past-eruptions ( , 2000) ) impacts assessment on buildings and household preparedness to earthquakes were evaluated using structured questionnaires. Building vulnerability was assessed using the ENSURE and the Building Vulnerability Index (BVI) methodology on the following parameters: building state, building materials, house position (single, row, clustered), house age, proximity to volcano and the surrounding soils/rocks. Findings revealed the rock types are predominantly made up of basaltic rocks/lava, pyroclastic deposits, tuff, lahar deposits and brownish to black loamy soils. Earthquake impact on buildings from the 4 eruptions revealed that localities around the epicenter were the most affected. Physical vulnerability assessment revealed that 35 % of the vulnerable buildings were < 5 years old and were residential buildings. Quantitative analysis of building vulnerability indicated moderate vulnerability to seismic hazards in 50 % of the assessed localities. For household preparedness to volcanic earthquakes: 32.0 % of households had first aid kits and 73.1 % had identified safe evacuation locations. The study revealed that the presence of tuff, soft and loose unconsolidated soils; the position and state of buildings; and the absence of evacuation plans significantly contributed to seismic vulnerability in Buea municipality.